10 Stunning Kitchen Ideas 2025 with Island: Creative Small Space Solutions & Design Trends for Kitchens with Islands

A few years back, a client asked me to design a kitchen where the island could both seat six people and hide a treadmill inside. Sounds wild, right? Well, we didn’t hide the treadmill, but it did get me thinking how islands can truly be the heart of the kitchen. Especially in small spaces, I’ve learned that limitations often push you toward the most creative solutions. Today, I’m sharing my favorite 10 kitchen ideas for 2025 featuring islands — all inspired by real projects I’ve worked on.

1. Multi-Level Kitchen Island

One of my go-to tricks is designing an island with two heights: one for prep and one for dining. It keeps cooking separate from eating, and in smaller kitchens it’s a clever way to make a single piece do double duty. I recently modeled a compact layout in a room planner before building it, and it saved us from an awkward traffic flow.

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2. Waterfall Edge Countertops

This trend is still going strong in 2025 — the dramatic wrap-around edge gives an island a sculptural feel. It’s easy to clean, but beware: the sleek look can show fingerprints if you choose glossy finishes.

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3. Mixed Materials for Texture

Combining wood with stone, or matte with metallic, instantly makes an island feel higher-end. My favorite is pairing light oak with brushed brass; it works beautifully in both modern and transitional kitchens.

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4. Hidden Storage Compartments

I designed a project where the island drawers hid spice racks, pet bowls, and even a charging station. It’s perfect for families who need a clutter-free countertop and love a touch of surprise.

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5. Integrated Appliances

From wine coolers to mini dishwashers, integrating appliances into the island can free up wall space for more cabinets or open shelving. In one project, a free floor plan creator helped us work out every inch before committing to appliance purchases.

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6. Bold Color Statements

Deep green, navy blue, even terracotta — colored islands are making a comeback. They add personality without overwhelming the whole kitchen, especially if the rest of your cabinetry stays neutral.

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7. Seating on Two Sides

For more sociable spaces, designing the island with seating on two adjacent sides encourages face-to-face conversation and better use of corner seats. The only challenge is making sure traffic lanes stay open.

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8. Suspended Statement Lighting

Oversized pendants or linear LED fixtures above the island can define the space and create a focal point. In my experience, the sweet spot for pendant height is 75–85 cm above the countertop.

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9. Dual-Function Islands

An island that serves as both a breakfast bar and prep space is perfect for compact homes. I remember one project where we planned all of this with a kitchen layout planner to balance circulation space and seating comfort.

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10. Sustainable & Reclaimed Materials

Choosing reclaimed wood for the base or recycled stone for the countertop not only looks beautiful but also feels good from a sustainability perspective. Clients love the idea of giving materials a second life.

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FAQ

1. What is the best island size for a small kitchen?

Generally, 90–120 cm in length with a depth of 60 cm works well, allowing enough prep space while keeping movement easy.

2. How much clearance should I leave around a kitchen island?

At least 90 cm on all sides is recommended for comfortable traffic flow according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association.

3. Can I put a sink in a small kitchen island?

Yes, but be sure to factor plumbing access and adequate counter space on both sides for prep and drying.

4. Are kitchen islands going out of style?

No, but they’re evolving — 2025 designs focus more on multifunction and integrated storage.

5. What lighting works best over an island?

Pendant lights with warm LED bulbs add both task illumination and ambience.

6. Can I add an island without remodeling the whole kitchen?

Yes, a freestanding island or cart can be added to most kitchens without major renovation.

7. What’s the cost for adding a kitchen island?

It ranges from $1,000 to $5,000+, depending on size, materials, and appliance integration.

8. Where can I design my own kitchen island layout?

You can use online planning tools, like those at Coohom’s kitchen layout planner, to visualize and refine your ideas before building.